Sailing to Formentera feels like a shortcut to postcard water. This private 7-hour outing from Ibiza gives you two serious beach stops plus time on the boards. I like the mix of anchored swimming and active time (snorkel, kayak, and paddle surf). I also love that the skipper calls the route based on conditions, so you get a safer day out at sea.

One thing to plan for: this is a boat day without lunch or drinks included, so you’ll want to think about what you’ll eat and how you’ll pace yourself in the sun.

Key Highlights You’ll Notice Fast

• Private boat, your group only: fewer crowds, more control of your day.
• Two iconic Formentera stops: S’Espalmador and Playa de Ses Illetes.
• Hands-on water time: snorkeling gear plus a 2-person kayak and paddle surf boards.
• Skipper-led decision making: east or west side routing depending on weather for safety.
• Chill cruising format: long anchored periods, short sailing legs between stops.

Formentera, Without the Hassle: How This Private Sail Day Works

This is the kind of day you book when you want the “beach in a dream” feeling, but you don’t want to spend your whole vacation timing buses, taxis, and crowded ferries. You start on Ibiza and head over by boat, then spend most of your time stopped and anchored near the action.

The structure is simple: cruise, stop, play, repeat. It’s built around getting you on the water quickly, then letting you linger where the water is clear enough to make snorkeling worth it.

Because it’s private, you’re not sharing the boat with strangers. That matters more than people think. A private setup keeps the vibe relaxed. It also makes it easier to follow the captain’s rhythm for boarding, moving gear, and taking breaks.

Price and What You Really Get for $154.88

At $154.88 per person for a ~7-hour private sailing experience, you’re paying for three things: boat time to reach Formentera-style beaches, gear for active water time, and a skipper who handles the route and on-water decisions.

Here’s the value math that matters:

• You get snorkeling equipment and water toys (kayak and paddle surf boards). If you tried to recreate this on your own, you’d spend time coordinating gear and access.
• You’re not buying meals on top of the tour price, but you also aren’t forced into a fixed “lunch included” plan that may not match your appetite or schedule.
• The private part is hard to replicate independently. Even if you rented gear, you’d still need transport and a captain-level setup.

The only real “gotcha” on value is the food. Since lunch and drinks aren’t included, your final cost depends on what you choose to bring or whether you arrange something on Formentera.

Meeting Point at Beso Beach Ibiza: Start Your Day Smooth

You meet at Beso Beach Ibiza, Platja de ses Salines (s/n, 07818 San Jorge de ses Salines, Illes Balears). The tour starts at 11:00 am and ends back at the same meeting point, so you don’t need to figure out a return plan.

The good news: it’s described as near public transportation, so you’re not locked into one access method. If you’re using a taxi or rideshare, it’s still usually easier to reach a beach meeting point than a port area scattered with signage and last-minute parking chaos.

Bring what you’d bring for a sunny, on-the-water day:

• A swimsuit you don’t mind getting saltwater on
• Sun protection you’ll actually reapply
• A towel or something that dries fast
• Water and snacks if you want them (since no food is included)

The S’Espalmador Leg: 1 Hour 10 Minutes to Clear-Water Country

Your first run is about 1 hour and 10 minutes of navigating to reach S’Espalmador. That stretch isn’t just travel time. It’s part of the experience—watching the coastline shift and getting your bearings from the sea.

The skipper also decides whether you visit the east or west side of the island depending on weather conditions. That’s not “random”—it’s smart seamanship. On days with changing wind or swell, choosing the side that’s calmer helps keep the whole outing pleasant.

While anchored, you’ll have time to do the things that make this kind of day special:

• snorkel
• kayak
• paddle surf
• swim
• or simply hang out and walk the beach

This first stop is about 3 hours, which is long enough to try a couple of activities without feeling rushed.

Stop 1 S’Espalmador: Snorkel, Kayak, and Beach Time Without Rushing

S’Espalmador is where you go when you want that “wow, this water looks unreal” feeling. Since you’ll be anchored in crystal-clear waters, it’s built for visibility-based activities like snorkeling and swimming.

What I like about the way this stop is set up is the balance between active and relaxed time. You can:

• put on the snorkeling gear and follow what you see near the surface
• take a slower approach and just swim
• use the provided boards if you feel like moving

You also have the option to walk on the beach. That small change of pace helps. Boats days can feel repetitive if every minute is water-based. Walking breaks that up.

Possible drawback: if you’re the type who gets cold quickly, the time in open water can catch you off guard. Even on sunny days, sea conditions can cool you down, especially once you’ve been in the water a while.

The Short Cruise to Ses Illetes: 20 Minutes, Then More Time to Play

After S’Espalmador, you’ll take about 20 minutes to reach Playa de Ses Illetes. That’s a quick hop. Translation: you lose less time to travel and more time to beach-and-board fun.

The same idea applies here: the skipper again chooses the east or west side depending on weather conditions for security. If you’ve ever had a day at sea ruined by uncomfortable chop, you’ll appreciate this built-in flexibility.

This second stop is also about 3 hours, so you’re not “burning daylight” in between. It’s more like a second act with different scenery and a fresh set of choices.

Stop 2 Playa de Ses Illetes: A Beach Day With Boards and Snorkel Plans

Playa de Ses Illetes is the kind of place that makes you want to do everything at once. The good thing: your time on the water is optional. You can go for beach time, snorkel time, board time, or a mix.

On this stop, you can:

• visit the beach
• snorkel
• kayak
• paddle surf
• swim
• or relax on board with music, plus your food and drink

That “your food and drink” part is important. Since no food or drinks are included, you’ll get the best experience if you bring something that matches how you like to spend a beach day—light snacks, a small meal, or even a plan to purchase food when you’re on land.

A practical note: with 3 hours here, you can pace yourself. Try snorkeling first if you want calmer water visibility, then switch to boards or beach lounging later.

Captain Baldo and the Relaxed Private-Vibe Factor

The biggest recurring theme from the captain’s approach is simple: calm, friendly, and flexible. The skipper is Baldo, and he’s known for creating a friendly, relaxed environment and communicating well.

What “good communication” means on a sailing day:

• clear timing for when to board and when to swap gear
• realistic expectations about conditions
• quick adjustments without drama
• help making decisions when you want lunch or downtime

One detail I’d especially take seriously: Baldo can be flexible about food planning. In at least one case, he helped arrange lunch on Formentera. That can matter if you didn’t bring a full cooler setup and you still want an easy meal without hunting around under stress.

Gear and Amenities: What’s Included, What Isn’t

This tour includes a solid water setup:

• snorkeling equipment
• kayak for 2 people
• two paddle surf boards
• ice
• gas

That’s a lot of capability for a private day. It means you’re not stuck watching the scenery while everyone else plays.

What’s not included:

• lunch
• brunch
• alcoholic beverages
• no food or drinks are included

The ice helps if you bring beverages or want to keep small snacks chilled. But don’t count on the boat covering your meal needs.

My advice: plan for a middle-ground day. Bring light food that doesn’t melt instantly. If you want lunch on Formentera, ask early what your options look like that day, since the skipper’s flexibility depends on conditions and timing.

Weather Rules and the East/West Island Choice

This experience runs on good weather. That’s not just a fine print line. Sailing and snorkeling depend on wind and sea conditions, and the itinerary explicitly changes sides (east or west) based on what’s safest.

If weather is rough, the tour won’t force it. Instead, it’s set up to offer a different date or a full refund when poor weather cancels it. That’s the way you want these things handled—no “you paid, so go anyway” pressure.

If you’re booking close to your trip’s most important day, give yourself a buffer day or two on either side. Sea days can shift, and having flexibility protects your schedule.

Who This Tour Is Best For (and Who Might Want Something Else)

This is a great match if you want:

• Formentera beaches with a boat-based approach
• snorkeling plus active time (kayak and paddle surf)
• a private setup where your group sets the pace
• a skipper who manages conditions and keeps things friendly

It’s also a smart pick for families or mixed groups because there’s a range of activities. Some people snorkel. Some people just float and swim. Everyone gets options.

Who might not love it:

• If you want a full “food included” vacation day, you’ll find the lack of meals limiting.
• If your priority is nightlife or long dinners, this 11:00 am start is a day plan, not an evening plan.

Booking Smart: Small Moves That Improve the Day

This tour is offered in English, and you’ll get confirmation after booking. It also uses a mobile ticket, which is convenient if you’re juggling multiple reservations while on Ibiza.

I’d also treat the private nature as a chance to personalize. Your group can decide whether you want more snorkeling time, more beach walking, or more board time. The schedule gives you room, but you still need to pick your priorities.

One more tip: pack with the water in mind. Even with equipment provided, having your own sun protection and a plan for comfort makes a difference.

Should You Book This Private 7-Hour Formentera Sailing Tour?

If your dream day is clear water, real beach time, and active extras like snorkeling, a 2-person kayak, and paddle surf boards—this is a very strong buy. The private setup keeps it calm, and the skipper’s style (Baldo) is clearly a major reason people have a good day out at sea.

I’d only hesitate if meals and drinks are non-negotiable for you. Since lunch and alcohol aren’t included, you’ll need to plan either snacks or a meal strategy on Formentera.

If you’re okay handling food yourself and you want a true sailing experience that reaches the famous spots without stress, this one makes sense.

FAQ

What beaches do you visit on this sailing tour?

You stop at S’Espalmador and Playa de Ses Illetes.

How long are the stops during the tour?

You’ll spend about 3 hours at S’Espalmador and about 3 hours at Playa de Ses Illetes.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Are kayaks and paddle surf boards provided?

Yes. You get a 2-person kayak and two paddle surf boards.

Is lunch or alcoholic drinks included?

No. Lunch, brunch, and alcoholic beverages are not included, and no food or drinks are provided.

What’s the cancellation policy if weather changes?

You can cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience starts. If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.